Childhood and growing up in a cohousing community
From Sandy McMillan's book Someone to Lift the Other End'
The children had almost unlimited freedom, a supply of 'siblings', and many ‘aunts and uncles’ doing interesting things that they enjoyed sharing. We were very close and affectionate and a crying child was usually picked up and hugged by the nearest adults. We actively shunned the kibbutz concept and Postlip children have close relationships. Age doesn’t seem to divide them and teenagers nurture and play with little ones. The people that grow up here remain very special and often share some very likeable characteristics: independence of thought, warmth in relationships, resourceful ability to cope, and willingness to accept challenges. Many have tended to choose unconventional lives, are unimpressed by material possessions and make important contributions to other people. A very great pleasure is when Postlip children come back as adults – especially when they bring their own children to see their roots. |